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Hernandez to be stretched out as starter in camp

PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. -- Roberto Hernandez talked briefly about joining the Rays this spring after seven Major League seasons with the Indians.

Speculation about where he might be used on the Rays' staff was answered Thursday -- at least for the time being -- by Hernandez and Maddon.

Hernandez considers himself a starter and smiled when asked about pitching in the bullpen, without elaborating. The 30-year-old right-hander has pitched in 184 Major League games, and 153 of those appearances have been in a starting role.

When asked about Hernandez's projected role, Maddon said: "We will treat him as a starter right now."